Bachu AK, Kotapati VP, Kainth T, Patel R, Youssef NA, Tampi RR. Electroconvulsive therapy in individuals with
dementia/major NCD presenting with behavioral symptoms: a systematic review.
Int Psychogeriatr 2023:1-16. [PMID:
37170574 DOI:
10.1017/s104161022300039x]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to systematically review the literature on using electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in patients with dementia/major NCD (Neuro cognitive disorder) presenting with behavioral symptoms.
DESIGN
We conducted a PRISMA-guided systematic review of the literature. We searched five major databases, including PubMed, Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and registry (ClinicalTrials.gov), collaborating with "ECT" and "dementia/major NCD" as our search terms.
MEASUREMENTS
Out of 445 published papers and four clinical trials, only 43 papers and three clinical trials met the criteria. There were 22 case reports, 14 case series, 4 retrospective chart reviews, 1 retrospective case-control study, 1 randomized controlled trial, and 2 ongoing trials. We evaluated existing evidence for using ECT in dementia/major NCD patients with depressive symptoms, agitation and aggression, psychotic symptoms, catatonia, Lewy body dementia/major NCD, manic symptoms, and a combination of these symptoms.
SETTINGS
The studies were conducted in the in-patient setting.
PARTICIPANTS
Seven hundred and ninety total patients over the age of 60 years were added.
RESULTS
All reviewed studies reported symptomatic benefits in treating behavioral symptoms in individuals with dementia/major NCD. While transient confusion, short-term memory loss, and cognitive impairment were common side effects, most studies found no serious side effects from ECT use.
CONCLUSION
Current evidence from a systematic review of 46 studies indicates that ECT benefits specific individuals with dementia/major NCD and behavioral symptoms, but sometimes adverse events may limit its use in these vulnerable individuals.
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